The Best 6th Grade Books: A Booklist for Teachers & Homeschoolers
When it comes to picking the best books for your 6th graders, you might feel overwhelmed. It can be challenging to figure out where to start finding books that sixth-grade students will find engaging and meaningful while still covering all the standards you want to teach. That’s where this list of 6th grade books will come in handy!
These books for 6th graders are perfect for any teacher (or even parents) looking to make sure their students are reading engaging and meaningful texts. These books cover various genres, themes, and topics to appeal to every reader.
Here is my Ultimate List of Books for 6th Graders.
The 30 Books Every 6th Grader Should Read
Like the reading lists I’ve created for 5th graders, this list is shared in no particular order. For each book, I’ve tried to share a brief overview of these 6th grade books and some resources you can use to teach the text as a novel study or in book clubs.
1) The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C. S. Lewis
If you’re looking for classic 6th grade books, this is one of my favorites. Published in 1950, this children’s fantasy novel has become a classic and is now an equally famous film. It tells the story of four English children during World War II who move to the country and discover a wardrobe that leads them to another world — Narnia — ruled by a cruel White Witch!
Like a fairy tale for middle schoolers, this book has many engaging characters and fantastic themes sure to spark conversations in your classroom.
Get the Novel Unit: The Lion, The Witch & the Wardrobe Novel Unit
2) A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle
In this book, Meg Murry, her brother Charles Wallace, and their friend Calvin O’Keefe are introduced to strange happenings by the reclusive Mrs. Whatsit, Mrs. Who, and Mrs. Which. The trio joins them on an unexpected journey through time and space where they must tangle with IT — the brain of a dark force!
Your sixth graders will love the fun dynamics of the characters and the suspense as they travel through galaxies to save Charles Wallace. A Wrinkle in Time also features great themes such as friendship, courage, and individuality.
Get the Novel Unit: A Wrinkle in Time Novel Unit
3) When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead
This book tells the story of a sixth-grade girl named Miranda who receives messages from an unknown source. The book leads the reader through some unexpected twists and turns as Miranda navigates her way through middle school and life while uncovering more about the mysterious messages she is getting.
I purposefully put this book after A Wrinkle in Time, as the story makes many connections to the classic text. However, there are so many reasons this book is perfect for your classroom and offers a number of opportunities to discuss aspects of the author’s craft, including foreshadowing and suspense.
If you’re looking for 6th grade books that will keep your readers on their toes, this is a great choice. After students finish reading, they’ll likely want to go back and connect all the dots. I’ve even had a few students re-read the entire book after they finished!
Get the Novel Unit: When You Reach Me Novel Study
4) The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan
The Lightning Thief tells the story of twelve-year-old Percy Jackson, who discovers he is a demi-god after his mother realizes she cannot control him. Soon, he is whisked away to Camp Half-Blood, where he learns about his divine father and his many trials while also taking on the dangerous quest of retrieving Zeus’ stolen lightning bolt.
With great characters and action scenes, this book is sure to be loved by your 6th graders and is an excellent connection to Greek Mythology.
Get the Novel Unit: The Lightning Thief Novel Study
5) The War That Saved My Life by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley
This is one of the greatest books for 6th graders, in my opinion. It’s set during WWII when Ada, a young girl born with a club foot, is sent away from London to escape Hitler’s bombs.
Alone but determined, she makes her way to the country where she meets Susan Smith — someone who teaches her that nothing is impossible for those willing to work hard enough to achieve their goals!
Get the Novel Unit: The War that Saved My Life Literature Unit
6) A Little Princess by Frances Hodgson Burnett
One of several books written by this author, A Little Princess tells the story of a young girl whose father went off to fight in India years earlier, leaving her with nothing but a hope that he would return one day.
However, when he finally does arrive, the girl is forced to work as a maid and endure horrible conditions. Her life takes another turn when she discovers a secret about her father’s fortune — yet she remains kind and generous!
In my opinion, this book is the best place to begin as it is full of compelling characters and themes, including kindness, hope, endurance, and determination.
Get the Novel Unit: A Little Princess Novel Study
7) Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli
Published in 2000, this book tells the story of Leo Borlock, who is about to attend middle school for the first time. One day he sees a new student with blue hair and strange clothes — Stargirl. He’s fascinated by her lack of conformity, and soon, they become friends.
However, when their classmates ostracize her because of her differences in behavior, Leo becomes her champion.
This book is so beautifully written and tells an important story about kindness, uniqueness, and friendship in the face of bullying. It would be a great addition to any classroom library!
Get the Novel Unit: Stargirl Novel Study Unit
8) The 6th Grade Nickname Game by Gordon Korman
This book tells the story of middle-schooler Matthew Hollis as he navigates his life as a sixth-grader.
During this time, he plans to create nicknames for everyone in his class — including himself. However, things quickly go downhill when he realizes that the name will not help him or his classmates get along!
Perfect for 6th graders, this book will teach them the importance of self-reflection and empathy. It also helps students to see how stereotypes can affect relationships with others.
Get the Novel Unit: The Sixth Grade Nickname Game Novel Study
9) The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by Frank L. Baum
Another classic on this list of 6th grade books, by this point in their education most students are familiar with The Wizard of Oz. However, most haven’t read the actual book!
One of the oldest books on this list is The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, written in 1900. It has since been turned into a popular film, and television series as Dorothy and her dog Toto make their way to visit mysterious and powerful people — including the Wicked Witch, Glinda the Good Witch, and the Cowardly Lion!
They meet many interesting characters who help or hinder them along their way on their journey.
As old as it is, this book is a must-read not only because it’s exciting; I find it particularly helpful in comprehension and discussion. With the wide availability of the movie, you can also use this title to compare across different media. The book is much different than the movie!
Get the Novel Unit: The Wonderful Wizard of Oz Novel Unit
10) The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle by Avi
Avi’s tale about a young girl who has been raised only to know a lady’s life begins with her finding herself aboard a ship that is headed towards America.
Naturally, she’s nervous — especially when we realize how easily some people on board take advantage of her! Isolated and afraid, Charlotte is unsure who she can trust. As a result, she must learn to depend on herself and trust her instincts to save an innocent man and safely finish the voyage.
Get the Novel Unit: The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle Novel Study
11) Blood on the River by Elisa Carbone
Set in the colonial era, this book is based on the true story of the Jamestown colony. Centered around the story of an orphaned young man named Samuel, the reader is exposed to the harsh realities of transatlantic travel during the period. When he is taken on as an apprentice for John Smith, his luck changes and he begins to learn what it takes to survive, and thrive, in the New World.
This book has great historical content and would be perfect for any 6th grader interested in books set during this time period.
Get the Novel Unit: Blood on the River Novel Unit
12) The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
Now a popular movie, The Hunger Games takes place in a future society that has risen out of the destruction.
Told through the perspective of Katniss Everdeen, it centers around an annual televised event in which two “tributes” are chosen from each district to fight in a battle that only one person can survive.
Great for 6th graders, this book offers the perfect opportunity to discuss themes including injustice, freedom, sacrifice, and survival.
Get the Novel Unit: The Hunger Games Novel Study
13) Fever 1793 by Laurie Halse Anderson
Another example of historical fiction is engaging and relevant to current events, Fever 1793 tells the story of a teenage girl, Mattie Cook, as she works to help her family’s coffeehouse grow and thrive.
In the midst of this, however, Philadelphia is struck with a terrible fever that is destroying thousands of lives and spreading rapidly, including Mattie’s childhood friend.
Although it’s a work of fiction, Fever 1793 has been hailed as a realistic depiction of life in America during this time. Therefore, it is an excellent book for 6th grade students to read and compare the impacts of Covid to that of yellow fever.
Get the Novel Unit: Fever 1793 Novel Study
14) War Horse by Micheal Morpurgo
Historical fiction is a great genre of books for 6th graders to read because many are studying world or US History at this point. This is a World War I novel told from the perspective of Joey, a horse.
After being sold to the British cavalry by his previous owner, Joey spends time in different homes until he ends up serving in various battles with the men he has come to know as a friend.
The unique point of view is a great chance to explore how narration impacts the reader’s understanding.
Get the Novel Unit: War Horse Novel Guide
15) The City of Ember by Jeanne DuPrau
Another science fiction book, this dystopian novel for 6th graders is the first book in the Book of Ember series, The City of Ember is the story of a young girl named Lina who happens upon the secret of an underground city that is in danger of being destroyed.
Although it has been around since 2003, this book has become quite popular with educators as an engaging dystopia title. I would definitely recommend this for anyone looking to use authentic literature with 6th graders.
Get the Novel Unit: The City of Ember Literature Unit
16) Refugee by Alan Gratz
Refugee is a newer novel, but it is a powerful story that lends itself to many excellent conversations in the classroom. Written by Alan Gratz, the story is unique in that it weaves together three different periods and three stories – all with a shared theme.
While fictional, the harrowing tales of Mahmoud, Isabel, and Josef explore the trials and tribulations many refugees face. Although this book is difficult to read in many ways, it offers unique opportunities to make connections to the lived experiences of refugees today.
Get the Novel Unit: Refugee Book Study
17) Al Capone Does My Shirts by Gennifer Choldenko
In Al Capone Does My Shirts, Moose Flanagan is an average sixth grader living in Alcatraz.
However, as his parents increasingly become involved in the national debate over prison reform, he finds himself moving from home and attending school there – on the island!
As a result of this sudden change in his lifestyle, Moose must learn how to get by while also trying to make friends and fit in.
Get the Novel Unit: Al Capone Does My Shirts Novel Study
18) The Bicycle Spy by Yona Zeldis McDonough
Another excellent historical fiction text set during World War II, The Bicycle Spy is the story of a young man with dreams of competing in the Tour de France.
Throughout the story, he becomes more aware of the impacts of the Nazi invasion and realizes he can no longer sit on the sidelines. After learning his family is in danger, he must take on a mission to use his cycling skills to save a friend.
Get the Novel Unit: The Bicycle Spy Novel Study
19) One Crazy Summer by Rita Williams-Garcia
One of several amazing books by Rita Williams-Garcia, One Crazy Summer is the story of a young girl in the late 1960s who is sent to spend the summer with her mother.
However, when they embark on the trip by themselves, they end up at a training session for black revolutionaries that will change their lives forever.
Get the Novel Unit: One Crazy Summer Novel Study
20) The Giver by Lois Lowry
While this is not the first time I’ve recommended The Giver, this book has a lot to offer sixth graders that will likely go over the heads of younger readers. In this story, a young boy discovers that his seemingly perfect society hides some dark secrets.
In this gripping tale, the main character must decide whether he is willing to fight for change or accept what has been taught to him throughout his life.
Get the Novel Unit: The Giver Novel Unit21) Rules by Cynthia Lord
Cynthia Lord’s book Rules is another excellent option for sixth-grade book clubs or novel units. The story centers on twelve-year-old Catherine and the difficulties she faces trying to navigate her relationship with her brother diagnosed with autism.
Because of the nature of his condition, he struggles with social cues and boundaries – often in unexpected ways that can be humorous or frustrating for those around him. To help him, Catherine creates a book of rules for interacting.
However, as the story goes on, Catherine realizes that she can’t just rely on a set of books rules to keep her brother safe.
Get the Novel Unit: Rules Novel Unit
22) Roller Girl by Victoria Jamieson
For some reason, graphic novels and comics are still relatively unpopular reading materials for school groups – something which I hope will change soon!
In this story, the main character, Astrid, struggles with whether she wants to embrace her newfound love of Roller Derby or if she should continue focusing on her traditional, age-old artistic passion.
Buy the Book: Roller Girl by Victoria Jamieson
23) My Side of the Mountain by Jean Craighead George
My Side of the Mountain is a great novel choice for students interested in nature, but it is also great for conversations about the struggle for independence that many middle school students feel.
In this story, young Sam Gribley leaves his home and family after being forced to take on more responsibilities than he feels ready for. As a result, he embarks on a journey to build a new life for himself deep in the forest.
Over time, he learns how to make shelter, hunt for food, and create a sustainable lifestyle that allows him to retain his independence without feeling completely alone.
Get the Novel Unit: My Side of the Mountain Novel Unit
24) The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise by Dan Gemeinhart
While a relatively new release, this book has already won a handful of awards..and rightfully so.
Coyote has been through some pretty tough situations that no kid should have to deal with. Still, when she learns that a beloved park in her neighborhood is set to be demolished, she devises a plan to get back home and retrieve the memory box her mom and sisters buried there years ago.
With a cast of unique characters and an engaging plot, your students will love this story.
Get the Novel Unit: The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise Book Unit
25) Clayton Byrd Goes Underground by Rita Williams-Garcia
Another book by Rita Williams-Garcia, Clayton Byrd Goes Underground is the tale of how a young boy learns to come to terms with his grandfather’s death. After running away, Clayton faces a number of challenges when he loses his most prized possession – a harmonica given to him by his grandfather.
As he works to come to grips with his losses, he realizes that running away won’t solve his problems.
Get the Novel Unit: Clayton Byrd Goes Underground Novel Study
26) Esperanza Rising by Pam Munoz Ryan
Pam Munoz Ryan’s books are classics for a good reason. In this book, Esperanza moves to America after her father is killed. She tries her best to adjust to the new lifestyle that she has been thrust into – but the added pressures of oppressive laws and poverty make it harder than she might have imagined.
Esperanza jumps at the opportunity to earn money by working on a ranch but soon discovers that it is no easy job.
Get the Print or Digital Novel Unit: Esperanza Rising Novel Study
27) Number the Stars by Lois Lowry
The story of The Holocaust is a difficult one to teach students about at any age. Still, books that feature young characters can be especially effective because they allow for a more personal connection to these books.
In this book, ten-year-old Annemarie learns about the Nazi occupation from her friend Ellen – who has Jewish roots.
The pair embarks on a dangerous journey that allows them the opportunity to save Ellen’s family.
Get the Novel Unit: Number the Stars Novel Study
28) Touching Spirit Bear by Ben Mikaelsen
This book, the story of a young offender in juvenile detention who is sentenced to isolation on an island off Alaska as part of a new system to address behavior, is another excellent choice for conversations about independence.
Although he initially hates the idea of being so far away from home, through his trials and tribulations he begins to find that being alone is a good thing – and he also learns the importance of connection.
Buy the Book: Touching Spirit Bear by Ben Mikaelsen
29) Stella by Starlight by Sharon Draper
Set in the segregated South, Stella by Starlight is the story of a young girl dealing with racial tensions and the impending violence surrounding the civil rights movement.
Stella is harassed at school, and she is unsure of how to speak up or defend herself – but soon learns that she has to stand up for what she believes in if she ever wants to feel safe again.
Buy the Book: Stella by Starlight by Sharon Draper
30) So B. It by Sarah Weeks
This coming-of-age story features Heidi, a 12-year-old girl, as she grapples with the challenges of understanding who she is. Her mother’s cognitive disability prevents her from saying much, which means Heidi only has a few things to go on. One of them is the meaning of the made-up word her mother keeps saying, “soof.”
Working to understand who she is and where she comes from, Heidi begins piecing together the story of her upbringing.
Get the Novel Unit: So B. It Novel Study
You’ve seen the 6th grade books- Are you ready to plan your novel unit?
I hope this list has sparked ideas for the best books for 6th grade to add to your classroom library and your next novel unit.
While you’re here, grab my free novel study planning roadmap to get step-by-step support to plan a high-quality literature unit for your sixth-grade students whether you’re in the classroom or homeschooling. Whether planning your first novel study or looking for new ideas, you’ll love this great tool.
Check out my Reading Lists for Other Grades Below
